In September, Kirsty Williams, Welsh Liberal Democrat AM for Brecon and Radnorshire, raised the issue of long waits for women in south-east Powys to see a breast cancer consultant, with Wales’ First Minister. Constituents had raised concerns with Kirsty that, some women were waiting up to 12 weeks from referral with a suspected breast cancer case to a consultant appointment.

Kirsty has now had a response from the First Minister saying that there were a “number of issues” at Aneurin Bevan Health Board that resulted in a number of patients having to wait an unacceptable length of time. The letter goes on to say that waits are now down to 16 days but that Kirsty should contact the First Minister if any patients face longer waits.

Commenting Kirsty Williams, Welsh Lib Dem AM for Brecon and Radnorshire, said, “Being diagnosed with suspected cancer is a terrifying experience, to then have to wait 12 weeks to find out whether you have cancer or not, does not bear thinking about.

“This 12 weeks can make the difference between someone surviving breast cancer or not. So whilst I am pleased that the long wait problem does appear to have been solved, but I will be keeping a close eye to ensure that these waits do not come back.

“If you, or anyone you know, has been waiting longer that 16 days to see a consultant, please get in touch with my office so I can take the case straight to the First Minister.”